At its monthly board meeting Friday, the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board approved more than $1 million for agricultural diversification and rural development projects across the Commonwealth, including Caldwell County.
Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell stated that increasing agricultural diversity strengthens Kentucky’s future. He noted that the projects funded by the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board are key to fostering this diversity, saying, “Together, we are shaping a stronger future and a better tomorrow.”
As part of the County Agricultural Investment Program, also known as CAIP, five counties were approved for more than $556,071, including $111,697 for Caldwell County.
CAIP provides Kentucky farmers cost-share assistance to enhance and diversify their current operations across 11 investment areas, including dairy cattle; farm infrastructure; fencing, and water enhancement; equine; forage; goates and sheep; horticulture; poultry; swine; bees and honey; timber and technology, as well as energy efficiency and production; marketing; and value-added production.
Additionally, the board approved one Youth Agricultural Incentives Program (YAIP). The lone approval was for Caldwell County in the amount of $10,000. This program encourages youth to engage in and explore agricultural opportunities.
According to the board, all application periods and deadlines for CAIP and YAIP will be advertised locally.
